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Tag: Probe

  • ‘Wahala’ looming for officers with itchy fingers as IGP orders probe on welfare of kid protesters while in custody

    ‘Wahala’ looming for officers with itchy fingers as IGP orders probe on welfare of kid protesters while in custody

    ‘Wahala ‘ looming for officers with itchy fingers as Inspector General Of Police, Kayode Egbetokun said he has summoned senior officers including all DCs, CID, and Heads of Investigation Units over the welfare of younger protesters identified to be minors, while they were in police detention.

    The development comes following a nationwide outrage over the arraignment of the minors at the Federal High Court on Friday.

    The protesters, who were charged with treason, looked malnourished when they appeared in court three months after they were arrested during the August hunger protest.

    However, a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi in Abuja on Monday night, said Egbetokun had ordered a thorough investigation into how the minors were treated.

    The Police PRO also said the report of the investigation has been delivered to the IGP who is currently away in Glasgow, where he is currently participating in the Interpol General Assembly.

    The statement read “Following the recent remand and subsequent arraignment of some young individuals on Friday, 1st November, the Inspector-General of Police while in Algiers, Algeria for the African Union Mechanism for Police Cooperation committee meeting directed investigation into the conditions surrounding the care and welfare of these young persons while in Police detention facilities.

    “Upon receiving the investigative report today in Glasgow, where the IGP is currently participating in Interpol General Assembly, the IGP vowed to thoroughly examine it and take necessary actions to address any procedural lapses or concerns.

    To further ensure professionalism in investigation with emphasis on child-friendly investigation and care, the IGP has summoned all DCs CID and Heads of Investigation Units to a conference and workshop on November 7, 2024, at the Police Resource Center, Jabi.”

    The Nigeria Police Force then reaffirmed its commitment to upholding legal frameworks, ensuring fairness, and accountability, especially for vulnerable groups.

    President Bola Tinubu had on Monday directed the immediate release of all the detainees.

    Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this to State House correspondents on Monday after the President swore in seven newly appointed ministers cleared by the Senate.

    The minister said the President ordered the immediate release of the minors without prejudice to whatever legal processes that are ongoing.

    The President also directed the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction to immediately see to the welfare of the minors, and also take part to ensure their smooth reunion with their parents or guardians wherever they are in the country.

    Tinubu also directed that a committee would be set up to be spearheaded by the humanitarian affairs ministry to look at all issues surrounding the arrest, detention, treatment, and finally, the release of the minors.

  • Police probe video of officer in altercation with elderly woman

    Police probe video of officer in altercation with elderly woman

    The Police Command in Lagos State says it has begun an investigation into circumstances leading to the altercation captured on video between a police officer and an elderly woman.

    The Command’s Spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the development in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos.

    He said that investigations revealed that the incident took place in Alagbado area of the state in the first week of September.

    NAN reports that a video circulating on social media showed an officer inside an elderly woman’s car manhandling her.

    According to Hundeyin, the police inspector and his supervising deputy superintendent of Police have been brought in for questioning while the Complaint Response Unit has established contact with the woman in the video.

    “The command condemns the unprofessional conduct of the Inspector as it does not represent the ethics and operational standards of the Nigeria Police Force.

    “The command equally assures Lagosians that the investigation will be swift, thorough and conclusive.

    “We will ensure that the officers are disciplined as appropriate and members of the public are updated accordingly,” the image maker said.

  • Group backs Agbese on NNPC, NMDPRA probe

    Group backs Agbese on NNPC, NMDPRA probe

    The Energy Transparency Initiative (ETI) has refuted claims that Rep. Philip Agbase, the Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, has assumed the role of an advocate for the Dangote Refinery.

    The allegation was made in a statement by one Mr Ganzallo Gbenga, said to be the convener of ETI, and the programme officer, Mr Chinelo Ochiaga, on July 27.

    However, Mr Francis Nedu, the group’s president, and Mr. Ismaila Bello, the secretary, ETI, said in a joint statement in Abuja on Monday that the persons were expelled long ago.

    This, according to Bello, was due to fraudulent activities and other abuses that contravened the group’s objectives.

    “We are shocked and dismayed that these individuals would continue to impersonate ETI and make statements that do not reflect our values and mission.

    “Their actions are a clear attempt to blackmail and take advantage of innocent parties, and we condemn their behavior in the strongest terms.”

    He said that the leadership of ETI was aware that some government agencies had allegedly released as much as $500,000 to the impostors.

    This, according to him, is to blackmail Agbese and other National Assembly members who want sanity in the oil and gas sector.

    He therefore expressed support for Agbese’s claims of deliberate attempts by the Nigerian Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to discredit Dangote Refinery Company.

    The group said Agbese demonstrated exceptional leadership and courage in “exposing the truth” and applauded his efforts to protect Nigerian entrepreneurs and promote indigenous businesses.

    He added that Agbese’s dedication to serve the people and uphold the principles of fairness and transparency had been exemplary.

    He said that the Deputy Spokesperson has shown that he is a true representative of the people, and his actions have earned him the respect and admiration of many.

    The group said that NNPCL and NMDPRA have shown a clear bias towards international oil companies (IOCs) and have consistently frustrated the efforts of Nigerian entrepreneurs.

    “Their actions are a disservice to the nation and undermine the government’s efforts to promote indigenous businesses.”

    The ETI, therefore, expressed support for the House of Representatives call for the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed, to resign.

    The group said that Agbese’s reiteration of the House’s earlier call for the NMDPRA boss to be sacked is the position of many Nigerians who meant well for President Bola Tinubu.

    “We believe that the dismissal of the NNPC Group CEO, Mele Kyari, is long overdue as well.”

    The group therefore called on President Tinubu to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that the regulatory agencies served the interests of the nation, not just a select few.

    ETI, however, said that it had taken legal action against the imposters and already involved law enforcement agencies to ensure that they were brought to justice.

    “We will not tolerate any attempts to impersonate our organization or make false statements that damage our reputation,” the statement noted.

    The group urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and uphold the principles of fairness and transparency, adding that it would continue to monitor developments.

    The group said it would ensure that all actions and policies are aligned with the national interest, free from undue influence or partisan agendas.

    NAN reports NMDPRA had denied any wrong doing.

    In a BBC Hausa Service, interview, Farouk Ahmed the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA said the agency was working according to its mandates.

    “Dangote himself said that we are helping him.

    “We have more than 10 workers who are working 24/7 to make sure everything goes as planned and he personally came to say, thank you. So saying that we are undermining or sabotaging him is incorrect.

    “People don’t want to be guided by laws; maybe they want to be allowed to do as they please”, he said.

  • Heavy ‘wahala’ for El-rufai as panel recommends probe of his admin, alleged money laundering

    Heavy ‘wahala’ for El-rufai as panel recommends probe of his admin, alleged money laundering

    The ad hoc committee set up by the Kaduna State House of Assembly to investigate all finances, loans and contracts awarded under the former governor, Nasir el-Rufai has submitted its report to the House.

    Presenting the report during plenary on Wednesday, the chairman of the ad hoc committee, Henry Zacharia, said that most of the loans obtained under el-Rufai’s administration were not used for the purpose for which they were obtained, while in some cases, due process was not followed in securing the loans.

    Receiving the report, the Speaker of the Kaduna House of Assembly, Yusuf Liman, said that a total N423 billion was siphoned by the el-Rufai administration while leaving the state with huge liabilities.

    The committee, therefore, recommended the investigation and prosecution of el-Rufai, some other indicted members of his cabinet by security and anti-corruption agencies for abuse of office through the award of contracts without due process, diversion of public funds and money laundering as well as plunging Kaduna State into heavy debt.

    The committee also recommended the immediate suspension of the Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance, Shizer Badda, who also served in the same capacity under the el-Rufai’s administration, as well the chairman of the state universal basic education board.

    It also recommended thorough investigation of some key appointees of the last administration by appropriate law enforcement and anti-corruption agencies.

    The committee set up by the Kaduna State House of Assembly was tasked with the assignment of examining loans, grants and projects implementation from 2015 to 2023 during which El-Rufai served as governor of the state.

  • Reps place NSITF on special probe

    Reps place NSITF on special probe

    The House of Representatives Committee on Finance has placed the National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF ) on special probe scrutinising its documents from 2018 till date.

    Rep. James Faleke, the chairman of the committee said this the ongoing probe of revenue leakages in government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Abuja on Tuesday.

    Faleke said that the committee snoticed discrepancies in the submissions by NSITF and resolved to place it on status enquiry.

    “In view of the various submissions available to us as a committee and the discrepancy noticeable in all of your submissions I hereby move that a status enquiry be set to know the workings of your agency.

    “The status inquiry is from 2018 to date, which means NSITF should get a comprehensive analysis of all its records.

    “We are coming and can request for any documents anytime and we would not be giving you notice. Reconcile all your records,” he said

    The Managing Director of NSITF, Mrs Maureen Allagoa, who appeared before the committee, delegated the responsibility to make their submission to the Director, Finance and Administration, Mr Adedeji Adegoke.

  • Senate probes non-completion of Abuja Centenary City project

    Senate probes non-completion of Abuja Centenary City project

    The Senate has set up an ad hoc committee to investigate factors impeding the completion of the Abuja Centenary City project after 10 years.

    The senate resolution followed adoption of a motion at the plenary on Tuesday.

    The motion titled ” Urgent need to revive and complete the stalled Centenary city Project Abuja to realise its economic and development potential” was sponsored by Sen. Yisa,Oyelola (APC- Kwara South)

    Oyelola in his lead debate said the Abuja centenary economic city project commenced in 2014 through a public-private partnership to develop a modern city n the mold of Dubai.

    He said the project was earlier designed to commemorate the 100 years of Nigeria’s amalgamation celebration.

    According to him, the original vision for the project was for it to serve as a potential economic hub with plans to create over 150,000 construction jobs.

    Oyelola said the project was also designed to create 250,000 permanent well-paying Jobs, residential accommodation for over 200, 000 residents, and facilities to attract over 500,000 daily visitors.

    He said the original estimated investment for the project stood at 18.5 billon dollars as at 2014.

    According to him, the centenary city was also designated as a free trade zone under the regulatory oversight of the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), without prejudice to other statutory agencies like the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), Abuja Investment Company (AIC) and Abuja Infrastructure Investment Centre (AIIC).

    He expressed concern that the project has been stalled for almost 10 years since its commencement.

    He expressed worry that the project had recorded developmental estimates of less than seven per cent of road construction and other critical infrastructure.

    This, he said was contained in the independent investigation assessment of Nov. 2023.

    The Kwara senator said the report fell drastically short of expectations of the original vision of the project’s conception.

    He said reviving and completing the  project would have great benefit for Nigeria, including job creation,and increasing Nigeria’s profile as an attractive destination for foreign direct investment, tourism and overall national development.

    Sen.Isa Jubril,(APC-Kogi) in his contribution said that there was need for the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Finance to look out for investment bankers to take over the completion of the project.

    Sen. Ali Ndume (APC-Borno) said it would be a cheering news and good report if the senate could facilitate the completion of the project, given the several uncompleted estates in the FCT.

    The senate in its further resolution specifically tasked the committee to review the original public private partnership agreement and recommend amendment if necessary.

    This, it said was to facilitate smooth and expeditious completion of the project within the define timeframe.

    It also urged the Federal Government to prioritise the revival of Abuja centenary city project by providing appropriate support and resolve the regulatory issues.

    It urged the government to address any other impediments, given its beneficial potential to the economy and people of Nigeria.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the ad hoc committee has the Deputy President of Senate, Sen.Barau Jubrin as Chairman.

    Other members of the committee includes Senators Solomon Adeola,,Titus Zam, Aminu Tambuwal, among others.

    President of Senate,Godswill Akpabio urged the committee to turn in report of the investigation in four weeks

    The Centenary City in Abuja is a private sector driven project that was launched to mark the 100th anniversary of Nigeria by Jan. 1, 2014.

    The ambitious project is expected to cost 18 billion dollars ( N2.4tr) and take 10 – 15 years to complete.

    It was to be built to model global smart cities like Dubai, Monaco and Singapore.

  • Agriculture minister resigns amid graft probe in Ukraine

    Agriculture minister resigns amid graft probe in Ukraine

    Ukrainian Agriculture Minister  Mykola Solskyi has submitted his resignation letter after being suspected of the misappropriation of state land worth millions of dollars.

    Parliamentary Speaker, Ruslan Stefanchuk published the handwritten resignation on Facebook on Thursday. Parliament will soon decide on his exit, Stefanchuk wrote.

    While investigators from the National Anti-Corruption Bureau told Solskyi he is under suspicion earlier on Tuesday.

    The minister is alleged to have brought a total of 1,250 plots of land totalling almost 2,500 hectares into the possession of his agricultural holding between 2017 and 2021. Authorities thwarted an attempt to appropriate a further 3,200 hectares.

    The minister denied the allegations.

    “There was no corruption. Nobody took money,” he wrote in a statement broadcast by public television.

    Solskyi had previously admitted that, during his time as a lawyer in 2017, he had represented several private individuals in a dispute over land against state-owned companies in the Sumy region.

    Amid the war with Russia and fears Moscow may be getting the upper hand, there has been speculation in the Ukrainian media for days about the dismissal of several ministers, including Solskyi.

    Ukraine has been tackling a major corruption problem in a bid to show the West it is serious about reforms and one day joining NATO and the European Union.

  • I‘ve nothing to hide, not afraid of probe – Ortom

    I‘ve nothing to hide, not afraid of probe – Ortom

    Former Benue State Governor. Samuel Ortom says he is not afraid of probe, as he has nothing to hide.

    Ortom said this in a statement by his Media Aide, Mr Terver Akase in Makurdi on Tuesday.

    Akase said that the former Governor had no reservations over steps taken by his successor, Gov Hyacinth Alia, to probe his eight-year rule.

    “Ortom is willing to cooperate with the probe panels as long as the investigation is carried out in line with the law, because his administration was built on transparency, accountability, and good governance.

    “Ortom is ready to provide any information or clarification, as may be required.

    “He has urged all those who held political appointments his his administration to make themselves available whenever called upon to provide clarifications,” he said.

    Alia had on Monday, inaugurated two commissions to probe the administration of Ortom from 2015 to 2023.

    The two Judicial Commissions were; Commission of Inquiry into the Income and Expenditures of Benue State Government from May 29, 2015 to May 28, 2023 and the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into the Sale/Lease of government assets.

  • Rep denies calling for fuel subsidy probe

    Rep denies calling for fuel subsidy probe

    The Chairman, House Committee on Navy, Rep. Yusuf Gagdi (APC-Plateau) has has denied calling for a probe of the fuel subsidy removal under President Bola Tinubu.

    Gagdi said this in a statement in Abuja on Monday.

    “The integrity of the media is very important, therefore, it should not be mortgaged or traded for anything.

    “There is a misleading story in some section of the media quoting me to have allegedly said our President, Bola Tinubu, will be probed over the subsidy removal.

    “Nothing can be farther than the truth in that news report; I urge the media to be thorough in its reportage and not lose its integrity especially when it involves translation,” he said.

    Gagdi said he was taken aback at the sensational headline saying that it was aimed at attracting clicks and gain traction.

    The lawmaker said that the story was most irresponsible and reckless saying that he had great regard for Tinubu which was why he dropped his speakership ambition when he was directed to do so.

    Gagdi urged all and sundry to ignore the mischievous and blackmailing headline and urged media houses to be more circumspect while casting their headlines.

  • UK midwifery council set to probe over 500 Nigerians for ‘fraudulent’ exam results

    UK midwifery council set to probe over 500 Nigerians for ‘fraudulent’ exam results

     

    The United Kingdom Nursing Council is set to probe over 500 Nigerians for fraudulent exam results.

    The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), the regulatory body overseeing the nursing and midwifery professions in the UK, will be conducting the probe.

    It has come to light that the applicants may have been involved in fraudulent activities during exams at a testing center in Ibadan, Oyo State. In order to be registered with this council, international professionals are required to complete two assessments: a Computer-Based Test (CBT) administered in their home country and a practical test in the UK.

    After conducting an investigation into the activities of Yunnik Technologies, a test center based in Oyo State, evidence of extensive fraudulent activity related to CBT services was discovered. The Guardian reported that the NMC initiated the investigation in May after being informed about manipulated results at the test center.

    The investigation into the fraudulent exam results involving over 500 Nigerian applicants by the United Kingdom Nursing Council has raised concerns about the integrity of the nursing profession. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has taken swift action to uncover the truth behind these allegations and protect the standards of nursing and midwifery in the UK.

    It has been revealed that the applicants, who aimed to register with the NMC, may have participated in fraudulent activities during their exams at a testing center in Ibadan, Oyo State. The NMC requires international professionals to complete two assessments: a Computer-Based Test (CBT) administered in their home country and a practical test in the UK. However, evidence of extensive fraudulent activity related to the CBT services provided by Yunnik Technologies in Oyo State has been uncovered.

    The gravity of these fraudulent activities cannot be underestimated. They not only undermine the credibility of the nursing profession but also pose a risk to the quality of healthcare services provided to patients. Nurses and midwives play a vital role in the healthcare system, and any compromise in their assessment processes could have serious consequences for patient safety.

    The NMC’s investigation, initiated in May, serves as a strong reminder that dishonesty and fraud in the healthcare sector will not be tolerated. The Guardian, which reported the fraudulent activities, highlighted the NMC’s commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring the credibility of the profession.

    By launching this investigation, the NMC is sending a clear message to both the fraudulent applicants and the wider nursing community. Any attempts to undermine the integrity of the profession will be met with severe consequences.

    The NMC aims to protect patient safety, maintain professional standards, and uphold public trust in the nursing and midwifery professions.

    While the investigation is ongoing, it is crucial for the NMC to thoroughly examine the evidence and ensure due process for all involved. The reputation of the nursing profession is at stake, and it is essential to address this issue promptly and transparently

    Furthermore, this investigation highlights the need for robust monitoring and evaluation processes within the nursing profession. It is vital for regulatory bodies like the NMC to continuously review their assessment procedures and strengthen safeguards against fraudulent activities. Regular audit checks, stricter protocols, and collaborative efforts with international partners can help prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

    In conclusion, the United Kingdom Nursing Council’s investigation into over 500 Nigerian applicants for fraudulent exam results underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity and credibility of the nursing profession. The NMC’s commitment to thorough investigation and protecting patient safety sends a strong message that any attempts to manipulate the assessment processes will face severe consequences.